The publication ban of the identity of children in care is automatic and extends beyond a child's death.

Block called the 15-year-old girl's death "an extremely sad situation," saying in an email, "I assure you that my colleagues and I mourn the loss of every child and, like you, want to see better outcomes for Alberta's children."

According to the current law, the director can lift a publication ban only if he believes it's in the best interests of the child or necessary for the proper administration of justice.

Block concluded this case does not meet those criteria.

The girl's mother told CBC News she wanted her daughter's name and face to be made public.

"There shouldn't be (a) publication ban. I have a problem with it, because there's a lot of kids who died in care and nobody knows about."

Today family and friends grieved the teen at her funeral inMaskwacis south of Edmonton.

An amendment to the act that would permit a child's identity to be made public if the family so desires is in second reading at the Alberta Legislature.